
Laughing Gas
In Richardson, TX
Dental nerves shouldn't keep you from a healthy smile. At Ellem Dental in Richardson, TX, we offer laughing gas as a mild, effective way to help patients stay relaxed during routine care. Whether it’s a cleaning or a filling, we ensure your time in our office is lighthearted and entirely stress-free.
A light SENSE OF WELL-BEING

Laughing gas is a mild sedative delivered through a comfortable nose mask, inducing a pleasant feeling of euphoria and relaxation within minutes. Because it is used in combination with pure oxygen, the effects dissipate almost immediately after treatment, allowing you to drive home and return to your daily routine with zero lasting effects.
Who Is It For?
Fast-acting and safe, laughing gas is our most popular option for patients who need a quick boost of confidence during their procedure.
Mild Nerves
This is the best option for patients who feel a bit uneasy but want to stay fully present and alert during their visit.
Busy Lifestyles
Because there are no lingering effects, this is ideal for those who need to drive themselves and return to work immediately.
Pediatric Care
A safe, gentle way to help children and teens feel positive and relaxed during their regular dental appointments.
THE LAUGHING GAS PROCESS
Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is a safe, fast-acting way to feel relaxed and comfortable during dental treatment.
Request an appointmentStep 1: Consultation & Planning
We discuss your anxiety or comfort needs during your visit. Dr. Lily Morgan confirms nitrous oxide is a good fit, reviews your medical history, and answers any questions.
Step 2: Preparation
On the day of treatment, we place a small, comfortable nasal mask over your nose. You breathe normally—no needles or pills required.
Step 3: Administering the Gas
We start a gentle flow of nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen. Within 3–5 minutes, you'll feel warm, light, and relaxed—often with a pleasant, floating sensation or mild euphoria. You're fully awake, responsive, and in control the whole time.
Step 4: Treatment
While you enjoy the calming effects, Dr. Lily Morgan and the team perform your dental work. The gas helps reduce anxiety, gag reflex, and discomfort without making you drowsy or affecting your memory much.
Step 5: Recovery & Discharge
At the end of treatment, we turn off the nitrous and let you breathe pure oxygen for 5 minutes. Effects wear off quickly—within minutes—so you feel back to normal and can drive yourself home safely.
Step 6: Follow-Up
We check in briefly after to ensure you're feeling great. Nitrous is ideal for routine visits or as a gentle intro to sedation—no lingering effects.
faqs
Laughing gas is a safe, inhaled sedative mixed with oxygen, delivered through a nasal mask. It creates quick relaxation and mild euphoria without putting you to sleep. You stay fully awake, responsive, and can communicate easily—perfect for reducing anxiety or discomfort during treatment.
Yes—it's one of the safest sedation options in dentistry. It's been used for over 150 years, with minimal side effects when administered properly. We monitor you throughout, and the effects disappear rapidly once the gas is turned off.
No—you remain conscious, aware, and able to respond. Many patients feel giggly, warm, or floaty, but you're in full control. Most remember the appointment clearly (unlike deeper sedation).
Effects start in minutes and wear off within 5–10 minutes after the gas is stopped. You breathe pure oxygen at the end to speed recovery. You can drive, work, or resume normal activities right away—no downtime.
Most people can, including children and adults. We review medical history first (e.g., respiratory conditions, pregnancy, vitamin B12 deficiency). It's especially great for mild anxiety, sensitive gag reflex, or short procedures.
Have more questions?
Give us a call to speak with one of our friendly team members, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Morgan .
